As part of Time's list, Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade wrote about Serena,

"Serena is a friend, but I also look up to her as a fellow athlete. I respect her relentless work ethic, focus, drive and discipline. I understand what it’s like to sustain injuries and the fight it takes to come back from them. I admire her ability to fight and how she has defied the odds with sheer determination and heart."

In the May issue of Fitness, Serena tried to explain her different sides that many people don't often see.

"There's the Serena Williams that everyone knows: She's crazy… She can't make a mistake... And she's angry and just not nice, to be honest. I'm only that person for three hours a day when I'm on the court. The rest of the time I'm just Serena. I'm the class clown."

The 17-time Grand Slam champion and current world No. 1, Serena Williams was also chosen in 2010 on Time's list of most influential people. Other tennis stars that made the list include Li Na last year and in past issues, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Noval Djokovic.

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Mike Milazzo has been observing and playing tennis for over thirty years. During that time Mike has seen the equipment, players and game itself evolve to the sport it is today. Mike is active in several USTA leagues and is a frequent visitor to tennis tournaments. Contact Mike with your comments and questions.